Living in Luton
Looking to move to Luton? Learn all about what life here is like, from the local schools and transport options to things to do around town and, of course, find out about property prices in the area.
Your guide to moving and living in Luton
Why Luton is a great place to live
Luton, located in the county of Bedfordshire, is a large and culturally diverse town situated approximately 30 miles north of London. Enjoying a prominent position on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, Luton is particularly recognised for its historic connection to hat making, and the town still celebrates this heritage today. With a notable blend of urban convenience and access to surrounding countryside, Luton offers residents a mix of bustling town life and green escapes.
The area attracts a wide range of residents. Families are drawn to Luton for its schools, green spaces and recreational facilities, while commuters appreciate the excellent transport links to London, Cambridge and Milton Keynes. The town also has a sizable student population, thanks to the University of Bedfordshire, and a longstanding South Asian and Eastern European community. Luton's diversity is reflected in its extensive cultural events, places of worship, and international cuisine. The presence of London Luton Airport adds to its cosmopolitan atmosphere and provides ongoing employment opportunities for locals.
Luton has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, improving public spaces, shopping facilities, and infrastructure. The town centre continues to be redeveloped, with enhanced retail options at The Mall and new leisure amenities. For those wanting a balance between lively urban living and access to green landscapes like Wardown Park, Luton provides a unique and evolving place to call home.
Community & Local Life
Luton has a community-focused and welcoming atmosphere, shaped by its rich mix of cultures and longstanding traditions. The annual Luton International Carnival, one of the largest in the UK, draws tens of thousands and celebrates the town’s diversity through music, dance, and food. Community centres across different neighbourhoods offer everything from youth clubs and arts activities to classes for adults and seniors.
The area benefits from excellent public parks such as Wardown Park, Stockwood Park, and the nearby Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, supporting walking, cycling, and family outings. Luton's market, held in the town centre, provides a lively meeting spot for residents, and various faith and community groups contribute to regular events and celebrations throughout the year.
Safety & Crime Rates in Luton
Safety and crime rates in Luton are often a point of concern for prospective residents. As with many larger towns, crime rates can vary considerably between neighbourhoods. While the town centre and areas surrounding transport hubs can experience elevated levels of antisocial behaviour or petty crime, many residential areas such as Stopsley, Bramingham, and Wigmore are seen as safer and more family-oriented.
Luton Borough Council, alongside Bedfordshire Police, continues to invest in community policing and neighbourhood watch schemes. Regeneration projects in the town centre and improved lighting in public spaces have contributed to a gradual improvement in safety perceptions. Residents are encouraged to participate in local policing forums and initiatives like the 'Safer Luton Partnership', which aims to reduce crime through education and community engagement.
Parking & Road Access
Parking in Luton is influenced by both its urban density and proximity to major roadways. The town centre offers a mix of multi-storey and on-street pay-and-display options, with facilities at The Mall and other shopping areas. Residential zones often require parking permits, especially near the university or the stadium on match days.
Roads in and around Luton are generally well-maintained. The M1 motorway is easily accessible, making the town a popular choice for those commuting to London, **Milton Keynes**, or **Northampton**. Congestion can build at peak times on key routes such as the A505, but improvements to junctions and ongoing road upgrades help to mitigate delays. Outlying villages and newer housing estates tend to have better parking provision, while older districts may have tighter restrictions.
- London: approx. 50 minutes via M1 (35 miles)
- Milton Keynes: 25 minutes via M1 (20 miles)
- Bedford: 30 minutes via A6 (20 miles)
- St Albans: 20-25 minutes via A1081 (11 miles)
- Watford: 30 minutes via M1 (18 miles)
Food, Pubs & Nightlife
Luton offers a wide array of food, pubs, and nightlife options that reflect its multicultural makeup. The town centre is home to a vibrant mix of international restaurants and traditional British pubs, including family-run curry houses, Turkish grills, and Caribbean takeaways. Popular spots include the family-friendly George II pub, the quirky Brewery Tap, and a range of informal cafés at The Mall.
Nightlife in Luton is sociable, with several bars, late-night cafés, and music venues clustered around the town centre. The Hat Factory Arts Centre doubles as a theatre and gig venue, showcasing local bands and touring performers. There are also more relaxed venues and shisha lounges reflecting Luton’s global communities. While the town does not have a major late-night clubbing scene, there’s a busy calendar of live music, theatre, and seasonal markets for evening entertainment.
Is Luton Family Friendly
School quality: Luton is home to several Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' primary and secondary schools, alongside a range of nurseries and early years settings.
Parks and green space: The town boasts a number of excellent parks, including Wardown Park and Stockwood Park, both offering safe play areas, open fields, and nature trails.
Childcare: There are numerous private and community-run nurseries as well as out-of-school clubs for working parents, with options for all ages.
Safety: While Luton's crime rates are higher than some parts of Bedfordshire, the majority of residential neighbourhoods are considered safe and welcoming for families, and community policing is visible.
Family activities: Luton offers libraries, leisure centres like Inspire: Luton Sports Village, family-friendly festivals, and easy access to countryside attractions for weekend outings.
Pet Friendly Living
Luton is generally accommodating towards pet owners, with a good selection of green spaces and walking routes both within the town and its countryside borders. Parks such as Wardown, Brantwood, and Stockwood provide ample lawns and trails suitable for dog walking, while the nearby Chiltern Hills offer more adventurous routes for keen walkers.
There are several veterinary surgeries, pet supply shops, and grooming parlours spread throughout Luton, making pet care convenient. Many pubs and cafés in the area are dog-friendly, especially those on the outskirts or with outdoor seating. Renting with pets is possible, though it's advisable to check with landlords, particularly in new-build developments or flats where restrictions may apply.
Transport & Accessibility
Luton provides strong transport links to London, the Midlands, and beyond. The town is served by three main railway stations: Luton, Luton Airport Parkway, and Leagrave. These stations are on the Midland Main Line, offering frequent and fast services into London St Pancras International — ideal for daily commuters.
Bus services are comprehensive, connecting outlying suburbs and villages as well as nearby towns such as Dunstable and Hitchin. The Luton DART (Direct Air-Rail Transit) provides an efficient, dedicated link between Luton Airport Parkway station and London Luton Airport, ensuring seamless travel for both residents and visitors.
Commuters benefit from proximity to the M1 motorway, which is just a short drive from the town centre and provides a direct route south to London or north towards Milton Keynes and further afield. For those reliant on air travel, London Luton Airport sits on the town's outskirts and is one of the UK's busiest, offering flights across Europe and beyond.
- London: Direct train, approx. 25-35 minutes from Luton station to St Pancras International
- Milton Keynes: Around 25 minutes by road via M1 (20 miles)
- Bedford: 30 minutes by road via A6 (20 miles)
- St Albans: 20 minutes by train or road via A1081 (11 miles)
- Cambridge: Around 50-60 minutes by train (change at St Pancras/King's Cross)
Schools & Education in Luton
Luton has a wide range of educational institutions, serving its large and diverse population. The area offers choices at every level, from primary through to university, catering both to local families and those relocating for education.
Primary Schools in Luton
Some of Luton's most well-regarded primaries include William Austin Junior School (Ofsted rated Good, 2020), Foxdell Primary School (Ofsted rated Good, 2021), Warden Hill Junior School (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2018), and Chantry Primary Academy (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2017). These schools are known for inclusive environments and strong academic progress measures.
Secondary Schools in Luton
Luton's top secondaries are Denbigh High School (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2015), Challney High School for Boys (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2023), Challney High School for Girls (Ofsted rated Outstanding, 2011), and Cardinal Newman Catholic School (Ofsted rated Good, 2019). Secondary education in Luton is diverse, with several academies and faith-based schools enhancing choice.
Colleges & Sixth Form
Luton Sixth Form College is a leading provider for post-16 education in the area and draws students from beyond the town. Central Bedfordshire College also has campuses nearby and offers a range of vocational and academic pathways.
Universities in Luton
The University of Bedfordshire has its main campus in the town centre, attracting students from around the UK and overseas. The university is especially recognised for healthcare, business, and media-related courses, and contributes significantly to the area’s vibrant student culture.